The IWI Tavor, previously designated as the Tavor TAR-21, is an Israeli bullpup assault rifle chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO, designed and produced by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI). It is part of the Tavor family of rifles, which have spawned many derivatives of the original design.
Tavor TAR-21 with MARS sight in the Israel Defense Forces History Museum
Tavor (X95 and CTAR-21 variants) in use with Israel's Golani Brigade
A Nahal soldier conducts firing drill with a CTAR-21
Caracal Battalion IDF combat soldier armed with the GTAR-21 which is equipped with a M203 grenade launcher
A bullpup firearm is one with its firing grip located in front of the breech of the weapon, instead of behind it. This creates a weapon with a shorter overall length for a given barrel length, and one that is often lighter, more compact, concealable and more maneuverable than a conventionally configured firearm. Where it is desirable for troops to be issued a more compact weapon, the use of a bullpup configuration allows for barrel length to be retained, thus preserving muzzle velocity, range and ballistic effectiveness.
SVU-AS, a bullpup rifle with the grip and trigger located in front of the action
SVDS, a conventionally configured rifle using the same action
The FN P90 uses the bullpup layout in conjunction with a unique top-mounted feeding system, making it the most compact submachine gun with a fixed stock.
EM-2, an experimental British assault rifle from the 1950s.
